Liverpool step up Bradley Barcola pursuit
Liverpool are stepping up their efforts to sign Bradley Barcola from PSG. But there are other potential options out there if a move fails to materialise, notably AFC Bournemouth's Brazilian sensation, Rayan.
The Reds are preparing an opening bid for Barcola, who is understood to be keen on a move to Anfield. However, the Frenchman's price tag could prove a sticking point.
Barcola is valued by the Ligue 1 champions at £145million. Not only would that represent a Premier League record transfer, it is also some way above the £100m mark that Liverpool chiefs would prefer to do business at.
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Should the winger's price prove insurmountable in negotiations, the Reds could turn their attention to Rayan instead. The 19-year-old has been linked with a host of clubs, including the Liverpool, after impressing for Bournemouth following his January move to the south coast.
Indeed, talkSPORT reports that the Bournemouth star is considered a 'dream' target for the Reds. However, the teenager's release clause of £85m will not kick in until 2027, meaning that Andoni Iraola may need to fork out more for his signature in the short term.
One person who is very aware of Rayan's abilities is Cherries midfielder, Marcus Tavernier. The 27-year-old showered his team-mate with praise following Bournemouth's 3-0 win over Crystal Palace in May, even going so far as to predict that his stay at the Vitality Stadium would be short lived given his exceptional talents.
He told Sky Sports :
